Coup d'état

Definition

A coup d'état is the sudden and illegal seizure of government power, typically executed by a small group that may include military leaders or political factions. This act often disrupts the existing political order and can lead to significant changes in governance, including the concentration of power in the hands of a few. In many cases, coups are driven by dissatisfaction with the current administration, a desire for reform, or even external influences, and they can significantly impact democratic institutions and norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coup d'états have been particularly prevalent in Latin America during the 20th century, with notable examples including coups in Chile (1973) and Argentina (1976).
2. Military involvement in politics is often a key factor in coups, as armed forces may see themselves as protectors of national stability or as agents of change.
3. Coups can lead to long-lasting effects on the political landscape, including erosion of civil liberties, suppression of dissent, and establishment of authoritarian regimes.
4. International reactions to coups vary; while some countries may impose sanctions or condemn the actions, others may support the new regime for strategic reasons.
5. The process of a coup d'état can be rapid, but its aftermath often involves extensive political maneuvering as new leaders consolidate power and manage potential opposition.

Review Questions

• How do coups d'état influence presidential powers and constraints within a government?
  • Coups d'état can significantly alter the balance of presidential powers by undermining the legitimacy of elected leaders and allowing military or political factions to seize control. This shift often results in the establishment of authoritarian rule where presidential powers may become concentrated in a ruling junta or dictator. In many instances, constitutional constraints that previously guided presidential authority are disregarded, creating an environment where leaders can act unilaterally without checks and balances.
• Discuss the historical role of the military in executing coups d'état in Latin America and its implications for democracy.
  • The military has played a pivotal role in executing coups d'état throughout Latin American history, often justifying their actions as necessary to restore order or combat perceived threats to national security. This involvement has profound implications for democracy as it often leads to prolonged periods of military rule, undermining democratic institutions and eroding public trust. The cycle of military interventions reflects a broader pattern where political instability triggers interventions that further destabilize democratic governance.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of coup d'états on democratic institutions and norms in Latin America.
  • Coup d'états have long-lasting impacts on democratic institutions and norms in Latin America, often leading to cycles of instability and authoritarianism. Following a coup, newly installed regimes frequently suppress political dissent and curtail civil liberties, which can damage public confidence in democratic processes. The erosion of democratic norms leads to weaker institutions that struggle to uphold rule of law, fostering an environment where coups can recur. Additionally, the legacy of past coups can perpetuate mistrust between citizens and the state, complicating efforts to rebuild effective governance and promote democratic resilience.

Related terms

Authoritarianism: A political system characterized by the concentration of power in a leader or an elite group, often at the expense of democratic freedoms and political pluralism.

Military Junta:

A government led by a committee of military leaders, often established following a coup d'état, which may impose strict control over civil liberties.

Political Instability:

A situation where a government is unable to maintain order or effectively govern, often leading to protests, violence, or changes in leadership.